Skylark Cafe

Reward is often reaped when the road less traveled is taken, and in the case of Skylark Cafe and Club, it's bountiful. Just over the West Seattle bridge, off of the Delridge exit on the right-hand side, this jewel of a club is nestled— "Don't blink!" their Web site warns; the brick building comes up quick. Once you've settled in the warm, garage-vibed venue, the U-turn proves worth it. Opened not even six months ago by local rocker girl Jessie Summa-Kusiak (former Ripley frontwoman), Skylark kicks out the jams—with no cover—six nights a week. Thursday through Saturday features a slew of quality, soon-to-be-discovered bands (a recent Thursday showcased H Is for Hellgate and Tiger Teenagers), while Mondays and Tuesdays are reserved for their award-winning karaoke. If they like what they hear, open-mike Wednesday might even get you a gig. The entertainment alone warrants a trip, but what puts Skylark over the edge is the kitchen. The cafe serves up a down-home menu, from a hearty mac and cheese to the elusive Monte Cristo—all entirely homemade and satisfying. AJA PECKNOLD